Multi-mission land and naval helicopter
The AW159 answers the requirement for a multi-mission military helicopter capable of autonomous detection, identification and attack of land and naval targets. The fifth-generation, twin-engine AW159 delivers unparalleled warfighting capability, combining advanced avionics and mission systems to maximise situational awareness and tactical advantage.
Capable of operating in harsh and hostile environments, the AW159 has class-leading characteristics including a suite of self-protection measures to ensure rapid tactical assessment in any operational theatre. The helicopter also features a comprehensive weapons system with the ability to strike at an enemy at stand-off ranges across all domains.
Missions & Features
Mission flexibility
The AW159 is a highly adaptable asset. As well as warfighting roles, it can perform a large variety of missions including: Medical Evacuation (MedEvac), Search and Rescue (SAR), special forces or troop insertion, and transport of internal and underslung loads for vertical replenishment.
Outstanding technology
The technologically advanced AW159 has a fully integrated and comprehensive suite of mission systems operated through a tactical processor. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) reduces aircrew workload and increases cockpit capacity, improving situational awareness and mission effectiveness.
Inherent safety, survivability and availability
The helicopter is designed with high levels of survivability and crashworthiness. It features a ballistic tolerant design, self-sealing fuel tanks and armoured protection. Its short readiness times and high availability rates ensure it is always ready for operations, whatever the conditions.
Multi-mission capability
The AW159 extends the area of interest and operational effect for maritime commanders. Modular role equipment provides a true multi-mission capability from a single platform across the maritime domain. The AW159 is optimised to conduct Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), maritime interdiction, Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and SAR operations.
Outstanding technology
Capable of integrating into the modern digital battlespace, the network-enabled AW159 includes the latest communications, navigation systems and sensors with a wide range of air-to-surface and sub-surface weapons. The tactical processor and HMI are designed to give the aircrew tactical advantage.
Built-in safety and reliability
The AW159 is equipped with a fully integrated Defensive Aids Suite (DAS). The compact helicopter is marinised and optimised for operations from limited space on vessels in high sea states. The robust air vehicle and high ship/air interface qualities, along with a low support footprint, ensure safe, reliable operations without relying on a logistic train.
Technical data
Max Gross Weight
6,100 kg / 13,448 lb
Overall length
15.24 m / 50 ft 0 in
Overall length*
13.49 m / 44 ft 03 in
*MHR folded
Overall height
3.73 m / 12 ft 03 in
Rotor diameter
12.80 m / 42 ft 03 in
Capacity
1 Pilot, 1 Co-pilot/TACCO
6 troops on crashworthy seating
Max Cruise Speed (ISA, MGW, SL, MCP)
263 km/h 142 kt
Rate of climb (ISA, MGW, SL, MCP)
9.84 m/s 1,937 ft/min
HIGE (ISA, MGW, SL, MCP)
2,185 m 7,172 ft
HOGE (ISA, MGW, SL, MCP)
1,110 m 3,570 ft
Max Range (ISA, MGW, SL, MCP)
463 km 250 nm
Max Endurance (ISA, MGW, SL, MCP)
3 hours